With the Perkins trade, the health and ability of Shaq becomes pivotal to the Celtics quest for 18. Let's hope what Danny and Dickerson are saying is true. Shaq has shown flashes this year of still being very capable. Does he have enough left in the tank to last four rounds in the playoffs? We shall see, but I prefer his chances if he's in better shape, so this is good news.

This goes to show how committed Shaq is to bringing home #18. Everyone said he is more worried about his commercials and his tweeting, but he is more motivated than ever. I bet after seeing Perk bounce, he knew he had to step up his game to fill the void.